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SQUARE 1 DESIGNS
P.O. Box 163
Shelby, IN 46372

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

January 17, 2012

 
Here it is… a new year once again. Winter has finally arrived, NASCAR has concluded their first test of the season in Daytona, and
Kankakee County Speedway has held their annual mid-winter banquet. Judging by the numerous phone calls and e-mails I’ve been
receiving, many of you have started preparing your cars for the 2012 season. I, too, have been busy. I’ve been working on the new
schedule, finished up the 2012 rules, and I am about finished with the revised point system. I’ve been doing all of this while getting
accustomed to my new job. I have left my job of the last 10 years and accepted the challenge of a more technical position at the
top rated repair shop in Valparaiso.
 
I’d like to address a “rumor” that has been floating around lately. The I-MOD Association is NOT folding up. It is NOT disbanding.
It IS for sale. It is for sale because of my concerns that with my new job, I won’t be able to give the association the attention it
deserves. Being owner, director, tech inspector, and now office administrator, takes a huge dedication of time and effort. I refuse
to slight you guys in any way. If I can’t give it 100%, I would rather find someone who can than see all the hard work of the last
2 years go to waste. I have spoken to a few interested parties but I haven’t found the proper fit just yet. I want to find someone who
will continue this series and keep the basic core of rules and values. These rules have been basically unchanged since 1997. That’s
what makes this class so appealing to other racers. That’s why Circle Track Magazine recognized the I-MOD Association as one of the
only series that actually grew in 2012. (stay tuned for more info on this article!) If I cannot find a suitable new owner, I will continue
as owner/director. If you or someone you know are interested in purchasing the association, contact me. It will be sold “turnkey”
with the 2012 season all ready to go.
 
I will keep everyone up to date on how things are progressing. I will post the revised point system as soon as it is completed. I am
working on a points system that will allow a driver to have a legitimate shot at a good season points finish or even a points
championship and not have to run every points race!  
 
Remember to check out the rules page on the I-MOD website if you have any questions while preparing your cars. If you still
have any questions, please e-mail me as my new job does not allow phone usage during the day.
 
Practice days are only a few short weeks away!
 
Rich Rish
I-MOD Association Director

 

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January 10, 2012

The 2012 Rule Books have now been posted.  There is also a printable version. Check out the Official Rules page.

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November 27, 2012

The 2011 I-MOD season officially came to a close Nov. 13th with presentation of awards at the annual I-MOD Awards Banquet.
With unseasonably warm weather outside, we had a great turn out. All in attendance enjoyed a nice meal and then the proceedings
got underway. The first order of business was to recognize our sponsors. Paul's Auto Yard, our main sponsor again this year was at
the top of that list. Without the support of sponsors, all the trophies and award monies for the top 20 would not be possible.

 

The top 20 in I-MOD season points were presented with trophies and checks after being entertained by a video collage specifically
made for each driver by Amy Geruska. This years I-MOD points champion, Mike Kingma, was once again awarded a "one of a kind"
trophy   creation by series director Rich Rish. This years Championship trophy included the likeness of Mike and his Buzzard Chassis
race car laser etched into solid crystal.

 

 

Special awards recipients for 2011 were:

 

Perfect attendance for entire 2011 season- Adam Williams and Mike Kingma 

 

 

 
Hard Charger Award- Chris Arihood
 

 

 

Championship Chassis Builder- Mike Hollifield/ Buzzard Race Cars

 

 

 
Rookie of the Year- Chris Balazs 

 

 

 
Most Improved Driver- Rich Gynn

 

 

 
Best Appearing Car- Don Stone

 

 

 
                          Hard Luck Award- Jim Barkus

 

The next special award, Sportsman of the Year, was voted on by the drivers. This year it was presented to Mark Stevenson. This was
Marks second full season in the I-MOD division.   

 
 

Following that was the presentation of the 2011 I-MOD Award of Excellence. This year it was presented to Gary Gasper. Gary has been
a supporter of the I-MODs for many years. Everyone has enjoyed his fantastic photos he has taken and benefit from the self-less promotion
he does for the Association.  

 

 

The final award for the evening was undoubtedly the most prestigious award I-MOD has ever presented. This award was the I-MOD Lifetime
Achievement
Award. Series Director Rich Rish read a list of accomplishments this person has achieved over their long involvement with the
I-MOD Association. After the list was read to the audience, Rich Boteler (aka "RicerRich") was called to the front. Rich has been a car owner
in the series with several great drivers piloting his equipment to many, many wins. Boteler was presented a mantle clock which adorned
pictures of all of his different cars from past years in the place of numbers for the clock and jacket to show off to all his friends.
 
We here at RaceStar Concepts, LLC would like to take this time to thank Amy Geruska who announced her retirement from the I-MOD Association.
Amy has worn many, many, different hats over her 5 years of working for the association. While she cannot be replaced, the search is on for
help for the 2012 season. If interested in helping, contact Rich by email
imoddirector@yahoo.com.
 
So that closes the books for the 2011 season. Work is already underway for the 2012 year. New cars are being built. Old cars are being resurrected.
Be sure to check out the
rules page for any rule changes or clarifications.
 

For more photos, check out the photo page.

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November 20, 2011

There are a few 2012 I-Mod Association Calendars left from the banquet.  These would make a great Christmas gift for any race fan.
Contact Amy via text or cell at 219-616-2962 to have yours mailed today.  They are $10 each and feature 12 different drivers along
with a Bio and race stats from the season.

  

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October 17, 2011

What a spectacular showing of cars from the I-Mod Division at Kokomo Speedway this past Saturday.  
Eighteen race teams drove the distance to put on one outstanding effort. Entering the 2011 I-Mod Season finale,
there were still many points battles taking place.  With the Kokomo Klash being a double points night, drivers came
prepared to drive their hearts out to attempt the final points pass of the year. 

There was plenty of incentive too!  Feature Guarantee Pay Sponsor, Stevenson Fabrication Services, Inc., made sure
that all drivers were paid $75 dollars to start the main event.  Steven Fabrication Services, Inc. also paid out a fifty dollar
feature Hard Charger Bonus to the driver who started the furthest back and past the most cars.  Then as if that wasn't enough,
Wildside Racing, Don and Tammy Stone, gave four non-feature winning drivers an additional $50 just by the luck of the draw for
attending the 2011 Kokomo Klash.

Heat Race number one found Chris Balazs holding off Mark Stevenson, Chris Arihood, Ryen Johnson and Jimmy Walker. Heat Race
number two had Adam Williams out powering Rich Gynn, Mike Kingma, Chris Fortner and Aaron Lipford.  In the Feature it was all
Adam Williams for the second year in a row.  Adam had made his jump at the start from his poll starting position and never let up. 
Chris Arihood, Rich Gynn, Mike Kingma, Ryen Johnson, Bob Fortner and Mark Stevenson rounded out the top 7.  For moving seven
positions from his 13th starting spot, Bob Fortner was awarded the Stevenson Fabrication Services, Inc. Hard Charger award.  Chris
Arihood was also in the running by jumping six positions.  Following Tech, when all cars were deemed legal, the Wildside Racing Bonus
Money went to: Rich Gynn, Mike Heckenast, Jason Pahnke and Chris Balazs.

A job well done by all!  Congratulations to Adam Williams on winning the Kokomo Klash two years in a row.  Congratulation to all our drivers
on a successful season.  If you have not purchased your banquet tickets, please email Amy as soon as possible, tickets are going fast and
and space if very limited!

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October 8, 2011  * * Complete Kokomo Klash Payout Announced * *

We have finally had the I-Mod Association Kokomo Klash Payout confirmed by Kokomo Speedway. 
The following will be the Payout:

1.    $511
2.    $250
3.    $175
4.    $150
5.    $115
6.    $110
7.    $90
8.    $80
9.    $70 +
$5 Sponsorship = $75
10.  $60 +
$15 Sponsorship = $75
11.  $50 +
$25 Sponsorship = $75
12.  $50 +
$25 Sponsorship = $75
13.  $50 +
$25 Sponsorship = $75
14.  $50 +
$25 Sponsorship = $75
15.  $50 +
$25 Sponsorship = $75
16.  $50 +
$25 Sponsorship = $75
17.  $50 +
$25 Sponsorship = $75
18.  $50 +
$25 Sponsorship = $75
19.  $50 +
$25 Sponsorship = $75
20.  $50 +
$25 Sponsorship = $75

Sponsorship money is courtesy of Stevenson Fabrication Services, Inc.

In Addition, there will be a random drawing after feature tech for four (4)
$50 Bonuses courtesy of Don and Tammy Stone of Wildside Racing.
All feature drivers are eligible EXCEPT the feature winner.

****************************************************************************************

October 4, 2011  !! JUST ANNOUNCED!!

And they keep coming!!  We have another sponsor for the Kokomo Klash.  Don and Tammy Stone of Wild Side Racing have graciously added
four $50 bonuses to the mix for the Kokomo Klash.  Just like the Paul's Auto Yard Bonus Nights, Wild Side Racing has decided that any driver
starting the feature is eligible for one of four (4) $50 bonuses after the feature tech at Kokomo on October 15th.  The Feature Winner is the only
non-eligible driver.

RaceStar Concepts, LLC, the I-Mod Division and all the drivers appreciate the generosity of Don and Tammy Stone and Wild Side Racing.  With all
the Sponsors stepping up to the plate, we are bound to have an awesome car count at the October 15th Kokomo Klash!

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October 4, 2011

The Rocktoberfest at Kankakee County Speedway was a successful weekend of racing.  On Friday Night, Sept. 30th. Adam Williams and
Mike Kingma picked up the heat race wins.  Williams had to start the main event in 8th position since he had won the feature the week prior.
Mike Kingma was able to pick up the win from his pole position start, but Adam Williams was able to run him down to finish second with Ryen
Johnson, Don Stone and Jim Barkus rounding out the top five.

On Saturday, Oct. 1, Rich Gynn and Adam Williams picked up the heat race wins. And just the reverse from Friday in the feature.  Mike Kingma
had to start eight for winning the feature the night before and Adam Williams had the outside pole position.  Adam Williams was able to take the Double
Down Feature win with Mike Kingma making his way into second followed by Rich Gynn, Don Stone and Ryen Johnson.

Kingma and Williams are battling it out race for race to determine the 2011 I-Mod Divisional Champion.  October 15th at the Kokomo Klash will be
the deciding evening with points counting for double!

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September 25, 2011

There were 18 I-Mods signed in at Kankakee County Speedway on Friday Night for Championship Night.  Despite the occasional light rain shower, the track kept the show rolling and all races were able to be completed.  Mike Kingma and Dan Kroll were the heat race winners of the evening.  In feature action, Kingma took the lead and was pulling away from the field.  Jim Barkus, in a new ride,  was doing an excellent job of trying to run down Kingma.  Then from his fifth starting spot, Adam Williams decided it was time to pull out all the stops.  Williams got by Barkus and had his sights set on Kingma.  Williams and Kingma ran side by side for a few laps.  Williams on the low side and Kingma in an unusual  high groove for him.  Adam gave Mike a great race and took the lead away from Kingma.  Williams then put a little distance in there for safe measure.  Josh Cooley came from his sixth starting spot to finish fourth and Rich Gynn finished fifth.  Chris Arihood, who did not make the heat race, started seventeenth and made his way to tenth.  Chris was the Hard Charger for the night.

Next weekend, Sept. 30th and Oct. 1 is Rocktoberfest at Kankakee County Speedway.  Both nights are complete race shows.  Below is the payout.  Note, you must race Friday Night to get the Double Down money on Saturday.  Otherwise you will receive regular pay.  Friday and Saturday are I-Mod Association Points Nights.  Kokomo Klash will be the final points night for the I-Mod Association and it will also be worth double points.

Smith Realty  Racestar Concepts I-Mods Based on 20-car starting field

Friday Night A Main
-
Total = $1,330.00
1. $250    2. $150   3. $100   4. $90    5. $80  6. $70   7. $60   8. $50   9. $40  10. $40  11. $40   12. $40  13. $40  14. $40   15. $40    16. $40   17. $40  18. $40  19. $40  20. $40
 
 
Saturday NIght A Main - Double Down (must have ran Friday night to be eligible for double money, regular pay if not participated Friday)
1. $500 2. $300 3. $200 4. $180 5. $160 6. $140 7. $120 8. $100 9. $80 10. $80 11. $80 12. $80 13. $80 14. $80 15. $80 16. $80 17. $80 18. $80 19. $80 20. $80
 
Admission Prices
 
Pit Passes - Fri $30, Sat $35 or $60 Two-Day / General - Fri $15, Sat $15 or $25 Two-Day   Any questions call (708) 417-6018
 

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September 18, 2011

What a weekend!!  Friday at Kankakee County Speedway, sixteen cars signed in for their chance at a feature win. Mike Kingma and Rich Gynn set the pace with heat race wins. With Rich Gynn taking his second feature win at Kankakee County Speedway. Chris Arihood, Mike Kingma, Adam Williams, Chris Balazs, Don Stone and Ryen Jonhson rounded out the top seven.  The I-Mods return to Kankakee County Speedway on Friday, September 23, 2011 for the Championship Points Night.  It has already been announced that Mike Kingma has earned the 2011 Kankakee County Speedway I-Mod Championship.   Congratulations Mike!

Saturday at Shadyhill Speedway, the guys had a lot of driving to do!!  The evening started with the make-up feature from September 3rd's rainout.  Just as a reminder, Mike Kingma and Don Stone were the heat race winners that night and the invert for the feature was an "Ace" which put the field straight up.  The feature went to Mike Kingma with Don Stone, Adam Williams, Chris Arihood, Chris Balazs, Robert Shidler and Rich Gynn rounding out the top seven. 

Then it was time for Champions Night on the final race of the 2011 season for Shadyhill Speedway. It was a very busy race schedule for the guys.  It was the final Paul's Auto Yard Bonus Night, there was the 2011 I-Mod Race of Champions and the final feature race of the season.

In heat race action, Chris Arihood and Adam Williams got the evening started with victories.  Then it was time for the I-Mod Race of Champions.  Eight drivers were eligible, however only seven made the appearance.  Chris Arihood in the number 1 had one feature win at Kankakee County Speedway; Mike Heckenast in the 98 had one feature win at Kankakee County Speedway; Bob Fortner in the 71 had one feature win at Shadyhill Speedway;  Mitch Bailey acquired his one feature win at Kokomo and one feature win at Kankakee County Speedway in the #42 machine drove Don Stone's 77s; Jimmy Walker had earned two feature wins at Shadyhill in his #7 machine, but broke during the make-up feature and drove Jason Pahnke's 78; Adam Williams in the 14 earned 3 features at Kankakee County Speedway; Rich Gynn in the 89 earned 2 features at Shadyhill and 2 features at Kankakee and finally, Mike Kingma in the 77 had earned six features wins at Shadyhill Speedway and five features at Kankakee County Speedway. 

The line-up: Front Row  89- Gynn & 14 - Williams; Row Two 77s - Bailey & 78 - Walker; Row Three 71 - Fortner & 77 Kingma; Fourth Row 1 - Arihood.  Ten laps later it was Adam Williams picking up $400 and a trophy but Mike Kingma let him know he was right behind him!  Rich Gynn and Mitch Bailey took the final paying positions.  A huge thank you to Dan Lewis & Son Trucking; A.J. Wendt & Sons Trucking and Stix Racing for putting up the $700 Race of Champions bonus money. 

Then it was time for the final feature event of the 2011 Shadyhill Season. Adam Williams shot like a rocket from his 6th starting spot for the lead, Mike Kingma attempted to go with him but found himself parked behind the two tires in turn two.  On the restart, Williams took the lead and never looked back. Chris Arihood found his way to the front of the field as well. Kingma moved himself throughout the field back to the front.  At the checkered flag it was Williams, Arihood, Bob Fortner, Ryen Johnson, Chris Balazs, Mike Kingma and Chris Fortner rounding out the top seven.  Due to mechanical failures earlier in the evening, Jimmy Walker and Robert Shidler were unable to start the final race.

The the evening ended for the I-Mods with the final Paul's Auto Yard Bonus Night.  All drivers starting the feature dropped their driver cards into the hat.  Five will drawn and handed $50 courtesy of Paul's Auto Yard.  The lucky recipients were : 18J Ryen Johnson, 1 Chris Arihood, 63 Chris Balazs, 89 Rich Gynn and 14 Adam Williams.

Congratulations to Adam Williams on your success in the Race of Champions, the final Feature and the Paul's Auto Yard Bonus.  You had one lucky night!!  Congratulations are also in order for Mike Kingma in securing the 2011 Shadyhill Speedway I-Mod Championship.

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September 15, 2011

Dan Lewis & Sons Trucking of Wanatah, Indiana and Stix Racing of Lowell, Indiana have announced the payout for the 2011 I-Mod Race of
Champions that is to take place this Saturday, September 17, 2011 at Shadyhill Speedway.  Like last year, the funds are going to be split between
the top four drivers.  The Winner will received $400 and a trophy, Second Place $175, Third Place $75 and Fourth Place $50.

It is very generous of these two companies to sponsor the I-Mod division for such an honorable race.  It is more generous of them to stipulate that
the monies be split between the top four drivers rather than winner take all.  A very special "Thank You" to Dan Lewis & Sons Trucking of Wanatah,
Indiana and Stix Racing of Lowell, Indiana.

Also, keep checking back for information regarding the 2011 RaceStar Concepts, LLC I-Mod Association Banquet of Champions coming soon.

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September 12, 2011

Dan Lewis & Sons Trucking and Stix Racing are once again sponsoring the RaceStar Concepts, LLC I-Mod Association 2011 Race of Champions.
The Race of Champions will take place at Shadyhill Speedway on Saturday, September 17, 2011.  It is announced that all feature winners in the
I-Mod Division will be racing in the 2011 I-Mod Race of Champions.  This year's Feature winners are:

Adam Williams wins at Kankakee County Speedway            

Mike Kingma wins at Kankakee County Speedway and Shadyhill Speedway 

Mitch Bailey wins at Kankakee County Speedway and Kokomo Speedway    

Jimmy Walker wins at Shadyhill Speedway         

Bob Fortner a win at Shadyhill Speedway           

Mike Heckenast a win at Kankakee County Speedway         

Rich Gynn wins at Shadyhill Speedway and Kankakee County Speedway         

Chris Arihood a win at Kankakee County Speedway.   

One more name could be added to the mix once the Sept. 3rd make-up Feature is complete.
     

 Each driver will draw for position. The race will be ten laps.  The 2011 I-Mod Race of Champions' purse is worth $700, the break down has not yet
been determined.  Congratulations to all this year's feature winners.

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September 11, 2011

God bless. May we never forget. Be sure to praise our service men and woman, police officers, firemen, emergency medical workers, doctors, nurses and all others that give selflessly daily to protect all of us.

Friday night at Kankakee County Speedway was a rough action packed night.  Congratulations to our heat race winners, Ryen Johnson in the 18J and Mike Kingma in the 77.  Congratulations to Mike Kingma on his fifth win at KCS, Chris Arihood who drove from 12th to 2nd, Rich Gynn who came from 6th to finish third, Adam Williams and Ryen Johnson.

Friday night at KCS will be a regular show with twin 25's for the late models.  Then on Saturday, it gonna be an action packed night.  We have the Make-up feature from Sept. 3 to start the evening.  Then we have the I-Mod Race of Champions along with the regular nights Feature which is also the final Paul's Auto Yard Bonus Night.  Be sure you have your driver's cards with you as 5 lucky drivers will be drawn out of a hat for an additional $50 courtesy of Paul's Auto Yard of Westville, Indiana.  That will conclude the season at Shadyhill Speedway.

Hope to see everyone at next weekend.  Reminder.  PLEASE mark your calendars to attend the Kokomo Klash on Saturday, October 15th for $511 to win.  We would like as many cars as possible to be there.  It will be the final I-Mod Points night and it is a DOUBLE points night.

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September 3, 2011

It was a long action packed night at Kankakee County Speedway.  All five classes were on the board for the night.  The Street Stocks were running for $1000, the Sport Compacts were running for $250, the modifieds had plenty of cars on the grid, late models were flying and the I-Mods had a great show.

Sixteen I-Mods took to two eight lap heat races.  There was plenty of action in heat race number one.  Nick Pasek took the early lead and was doing a great job of keeping challenger Chris Arihood at bay.  But a push in turn two was giving Nick a little trouble and Arihood would eventually take the lead and the win.  Pasek and Rich Gynn rounded out the top three.

The second heat race had Josh Cooley cruising!  Josh got the early lead and left everyone else to play chase.  Don Stone made an attempt to catch Cooley, but it was too late.  There simply was not enough laps.  Chris Balazs finished third.

The feature set up to be interesting.  Heat Race winners were on the front row. Last weeks double feature winner, Rich Gynn started eighth.  Adam Williams, second in KCS points, started 7 and KCS points leader Mike Kingma, who had mechanical issues in his heat race, started 13th.  A lot of good cars spread amongst the field.  There was some great action that took place throughout the field.  At the flag, Chris Arihood had walked away with the win.  Don Stone was able get around a few cars to give chase to Chris, but ran out of laps again tonight.  Adam Williams made successful passes and had some awesome runs to finish third. Josh Cooley finished fourth.  Kingma was the hard charger for the evening moving up eight spots to finish in fifth. 

Tonight, the I-Mods are on schedule at Shadyhill Speedway for the 9th Annual J&J Bush Classic plus fireworks.  Pit passes are $30 General Admission is $13 for adults and 6-12yr $2 and free for 5 and under.

We will also return to Kankakee on Sept. 9th and there is no racing at Shadyhill on September 10th due to Eldora Weekend.

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August 28, 2011

Congratulations to Rich Gynn for his "domination" this weekend!  Rich was able to hold off Mike Kingma and Chris Arihood on Friday night at Kankakee capturing his first feature victory there.  Then Saturday Night, he drove his way to the I-Mod Doubles Night victory again holding off Mike Kingma and Chris Arihood.  Rich was smooth and fast both nights.  Great Job Rich!!

Friday night at Kankakee, Ryen Johnson picked up his first heat race win of the season holding off Adam Williams and Neil Martin.  Chris Arihood picked up heat race number two ahead of Rich Gynn and Adam Pockrus.  Gynn won the feature holding off a strong run by Mike Kingma, Chris Arihood, Adam Packrus, Don Stone and Neil Martin. 

Saturday night at Shadyhill, Robert Shidler walked away with another heat race win with  Chris Fortner and Rich Gynn rounded out the top three.  In heat race number two, Chris Arihood was successful with Mike Kingma and Don Stone claiming the next two positions.

The 25 lap feature started all thirteen cars.  Double points went to the entire field with double purse to the feature winner.  But it was everyone's lucky night because Paul's Auto Yard of Westville Indiana put forth additional cash for the remaining field.  The guys were VERY appreciative of the additional funds. 

Twenty-five laps and the finish went Gynn, Kingma, Arihood, Walker, Shidler, Williams, Chris Balazs, Stone, Jason Pahnke, Brandon Shellhart, Terry Sadowski and Fortner.  The nine cars finishing the feature were pulled into the tech area and a cubic inch test was performed.  All cars passed.

Next up...Friday, September 2 at Kankakee County Speedway followed by Saturday, September 3rd at Shadyhill Speedway for the Labor Day Celebration.

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August 13, 2011

There were 16 I-Mods signed in for the evening at Kankakee County Speedway.  Heat race number one went to Don Stone and heat race number two was won by Adam Williams.  The feature went to Adam Williams followed by Don stone, Mike Kingma, Chris Balazs and Ryen Johnson.

I-Mods do not race at Kankakee County Speedway next Friday, August 19th.

The I-Mods run at Shadyhill Speedway tonight, August 13th and then we have our I-Mods Double Night and the Paul's Auto Yard Super Bonus Night on August 20th.  Drivers will be competing for Double Shadyhill Points, Double first place payout and then Paul's Auto Yard will add funds to every feature position minus the feature winner.  So drivers will be able to pick up extra cash in the feature.

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August 7, 2011

It was a rather hot sticky evening at Shadyhill Speedway last night.  The threat of rain and even a light sprinkle didn't keep the avid racers and fans down.  Ten I-Mods were on the board for the evening.  Tim Sullivan, Jr. drove the n33 machine in Robert Shidler's absence and Sullivan did a fine job pulling away with the heat race win over Rich Gynn, Mike Kingma and Adam Williams.  After the modified consi the track took an intermission and held the annual Autograph night for the fans.  It was a fun time with kids running from car to car for autographs and a few surprises.  Several drivers where giving away old trophies, heat race win plaques, balloons and lots and lots of candy!  It made a lot of future race car drivers very happy to meet their local drivers in person and put a face to the name and car.

The feature lined up with two hot shoes on the front row with two rising stars right behind them.  Adam Williams had the pole with Mike Kingma on the outside.  Rich Gynn had inside second row with Tim Sullivan Jr. on the outside. Gene Payne lined up inside third row with Don Stone to his outside.  Row four saw Chris Balazs on the inside with Mark Stevenson on the outside and bringing up the rear of the pack was Blake Jarrette and Terry Sadowski.  At the drop of the green, Adam and Mike wasted no time to see who was going to take that lead.  They raced door to door into the first turn and down the back stretch, they entered turn three side by side, coming off of turn 4 Kingma had a nose over Williams as the field crossed the flagman, a yellow was thrown for Blake Jarrette who had spun in turn 2.  Mike was given the lead on the restart and this set up a bumper to bumper race for several laps.  Williams tried everything he could to let Mike know he was right there and wanting that lead.  In the meantime, Rich Gynn was playing cat and mouse with Tim Sullivan Jr.  Gynn was not going to settle for the fourth place position.  It seemed that small battles could be found at every position.  Gene Payne, Chris Balazs and Mark Stevenson had a three way battle going for several laps with no one giving in.  But the battle continued between Kingma and Williams.  On lap 11 they got into lapped traffic and a little space was between them, then heading into lap 14 Adam went in turn three a little to hot and spun.  He was able to stay on the gas and continue on in fifth position.  Gynn was able to get by Sullivan during one of their side by side battles to take over second place and Dons Stone found his way quietly around the Balazs, Stevenson, Payne battle for fourth.  Adam Williams finished in fifth with Balazs sixth and Stevenson seventh. Gene Payne finished in eighth with Terry Sadowski and Blake Jarrette rounding out the top ten.  Everyone loaded their cars in one piece and headed home.

The I-Mods are back at Kankakee County Speedway on Friday, August 12th and we will return to Shadyhill Speedway on Saturday, August 13th.  Enjoy your week, we will see you at the track!

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August 2, 2011

Saturday afternoon was a scorcher!  A few driver's decided to take the night off and stay in the air conditioning.  However fourteen I-Mod drivers were crazy enough to put on those race suits and give it a whirl!

In heat race action, Adam Williams won the first heat race with Robert Shidler finishing Second.  Mike Kingma took heat race number two with newcomer Bob Williams taking second.

Mike Kingma and  Robert Shidler had a very tight, side by side race going for a few laps before Kingma took the lead. There was not a lot of side by side excitement during the feature but everyone race hard and clean.  Adam Williams took third with Rich Gynn, Jimmy Walker, Chris Arihood and Bob Williams rounding out the top seven. 

The I-Mods do not race Friday at Kankakee County Speedway, but we will return to Shadyhill on Saturday, August 6th for a full racing program and the Autograph night that was previously set for July 23rd.  Be sure to bring those markers!!

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August 2, 2011

There was a lot of action on the track Friday night at Kankakee County Speedway.  The area received a couple inches of rain in the morning hours and it took a little extra time to prepare the track.  There was a lot of sloppy soupy mud on what was typically the lower groove of the race track.  Not everyone will be accustom to running on this type of track. 

Seventeen I-Mods signed in and took to two heat races.  In heat race number one, Josh Cooley took advantage of the high side on the start to get the jump on Blake Jarrette and Mark Stevenson who started on the front row.  Josh was able to find a rhythm to pull away with the win. Mark Stevenson and Blake Jarrette rounded out the top three.  In heat race number two, Mike Kingma got the jump on Nick Pasek and took the lead from his outside front row starting position. Adam Williams was able to leave his fifth place starting position to latch onto second with Chris Arihood taking third.

It was bound to be an exciting feature with Cooley starting pole and having Williams and Arihood directly behind him. Mark Steveson started outside pole with Jarrette and Chris Balazs directly behind him. Kingma had to start eighth due to being the previous week's feature winner.  The race had two starting attempts.  Being the track conditions were new to many drivers, it took a couple restarts to get things under way.  With one lap down, Mark Stevenson and Adam Williams got into each other a bit and Adam went sliding through the mud down the front stretch.  Adam did a heck of a job keeping that car on the low side and in the mud as the entire field came speeding past him.  Once the race restarted, Josh Cooley pulled away from the field leaving everyone else to determine who was going to run him down.  Chris Arihood gave it his best.  But eventually Mike Kingma would get close to Cooley.  But no one had enough to pass him for the lead.  Kingma, Arihood, Stevenson, Balazs, Jim Barkus would round out the top six. The top five drivers had a post race inspection which resulted in a disqualification being issued to Cooley. The Feature win was then awarded to second place finisher Mike Kingma.

The final task at hand for the evening was the issuing of the Paul's Auto Yard Bonus money.  Paul's Auto Yard of Westville, Indiana had generously donated funds as a way to assist the driver's with the expenses of racing.  Paul Shaffer is a long time participant in motorsports and understands the financial aspect of this hobby.  Five lucky drivers were handed a fifty dollar bonus as long as they held a drivers card.  The Paul's Auto Yard Bonus winners were: 20x Nick Pasek; 63 Chris Balazs; 77 Mike Kingma; 01 Dan Kroll and 18 Blake Jarrette, Congratulations to the drivers and a huge Thank you to Paul's Auto Yard.

**********************************************************************

July 17, 2011

Fourteen I-Mods took to two eight lap heat races. Adam Williams won over Jimmy Walker and Terry Sadowski in
heat race number one.  Mike Heckenast out ran Mike Kingma and Don stone in heat race number two.  The feature
was a repeat of Friday night.  Kingma was able to take the lead fairly quickly and Adam Williams found himself giving
chase.  Rich Gynn had a strong run from his eighth starting spot to third.  Chris Arihood had to fight his way through
the pack from eleventh to finish fourth.  Don Stone had his hands full during that feature to hold onto his fifth place finish.
It seems our I-Mod drivers like to prove that you do not need shocks on the car to run well.  Sometime early on in the race,
Don's left front shock broke away from the frame and was useless.  Don commented that it felt like "dribbling a basketball,"
however he was able to hold on.  Jimmy Walker and Gene Payne rounded our the top seven.

Next Saturday is Autograph night at Shadyhill Speedway.  Be sure to bring a good marker, maybe some goodies to share with
the kids and your happy smiling faces!!  We will see you there!

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July 16, 2011

Sixteen I-Mods were signed in for two eight lap heat races.  Mike Kingma took heat race number one and Mike Heckenast
took heat race number two.  All cars started the fifteen lap main event. Mike Kingma started on the pole and set the pace
the race. The rest of the field traded positions to see who was going to get close enough to challenge Kingma.  After a few
cautions, Adam Williams was able to provide that challenge.  The two drivers choice distinctively different grooves. Williams'
top groove was fast, but Kingma's bottom groove was consistent.  At the end, Williams simply ran out of laps and Kingma
picked up his third feature win at Kankakee County Speedway.  Adam Williams, Chris Arihood, Rich Gynn and Don Stone
rounded out the top five.  Neil Martin was the Hard Charger of the race as he started 14th and was able to finish 6th.

The I-Mods are off on July 22 at Kankakee County Speedway, but they will return for the Mid Session Championships and
Paul's Auto Yard Bonus Night on July 29th.

Next up:    Shadyhill Speedway tonight, July 16th.

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July 10, 2011

A rather hot and sticky race day was had by all 14 I-Mods at Shadyhill Speedway last night.  The two eight lap heat races
were won by Rich Gynn in the 89 machine and Robert Shidler in the N33.  The invert for the feature was a five which put
Jimmy Walker on the pole for the main event.  Jimmy got the jump on outside pole sitter, Chris Arihood and never looked
back.  Arihood and Mike Kingma had quite a little battle going for second place. Eventually, Kingma would get the pass.
Heat race winners Robert Shidler and Rich Gynn maintained their positions for the entire race while Tim Sullivan Jr. moved
from his eleventh starting spot to finish 6th.  The hard charger of the evening was Don Stone, who moved eight spots
to finish 7th.

The I-Mods head to Kankakee County Speedway this Friday, July 15th and return to Shadyhill on Saturday, July 16th.

Other important upcoming dates:

Saturday, July 23th will be Autograph Night at Shadyhill Speedway. Bring those pictures and mingle with the fans.

Friday, July 29th at Kankakee County Speedway will be Mid-Season Championship Night and the first Paul's Auto Yard
Bonus Nite were 5 lucky drivers who started the feature will receive a $50 bonus courtesy of Paul's Auto Yard out of
Westville, Indiana.

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July 7, 2011

That was a long weekend of racing.  The final event of the Holiday weekend was at Shadyhill Speedway on Monday, July 4th.
Fourteen I-Mods spent their holiday at the track.  And it was sure to be a Fourth of July that Rich Gynn will not soon forget.
Rich pulled off the hat trick by winning his heat race and followed that up with his first career feature win.  Way to go Rich! 
Adam Williams won his heat race as well and started on the outside of Gynn, but Rich got the jump and never looked backed!
Jimmy Walker, Mike Kingma, Chris Arihood, Mike Heckenast and Don stone rounded out the top seven.  Stone was the hard
charger of the night moving six spots to finish 7th.  Jim Barkus, who is typically a Kankakee County Speedway driver, made the
trip to Shadyhill and finished a respectable 8th.

Everyone gets a break this week as the I-Mods are on schedule only at Shadyhill Speedway.  It is a regular night of racing
with the I-Mod Who Ever race. Invite your sponsor, your mechanic, maybe even your parent to hop in that I-Mod to see
what all the fuss is about!  See everyone at the track!

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July 3, 2011

The 2011 Paul's Auto Yard Bonus Nights have been announced.  This year there will be one bonus night at
Kankakee County Speedway and Shadyhill Speedway with a Super Bonus Night at Shadyhill Speedway.

The Paul's Auto Yard Bonus Nights are extra cash nights.  On the regular Bonus Nights, after driver's have
been cleared from tech, all drivers starting the feature will drop their I-Mod Association Driver's Car into the
bucket.  Series Director, Rich Rish will then pull out five (5) Driver's Cards, those 5 driver will get an extra $50
direct from Paul's Auto Yard. 

One the Super Bonus Night, all drivers starting the feature, minus the winner, will get an instant cash bonus
from Paul's Auto Yard depending on their finishing position. These funds will be distributed directly from the Association,
NOT the race tracks.

The Bonus Nights are as Follows:

Friday, July 29, 2011 Kankakee County Speedway's Mid Season Championships will also be a Paul's Auto Yard Bonus Night

Saturday, August 20, 2011 Shadyhill Speedway's I-Mod Double Night will also be the Paul's Auto Yard Super Bonus Night

and Saturday, September 17, 2011 Shadyhill Speedway's Championship Night will also be a Paul's Auto Yard Bonus Night.
 

******************************************************************

July 3, 2011

It was along night of racing at the Hill last night.  After the I-Mod Heat Races, there was a rain delay that lasted at
least an hour.  Once the track was ready to resume racing, it was a tough feature for the I-Mods.  After three
attempts of a double file start, the race was finally started single file.  After a few rough incidents on the track causing
a few yellows, it was back to green.  Bob Fortner did an excellent job of pulling away from the field.  Everyone jostled for
position before settling in to attach the car in front.  Mike Kingma was able to nose right on Fortner's rear bumper for much
of the race.  Adam Williams was also able to make his way to Kingma's bumper.  Eventually as the leaders go into lapped
traffic, Kingma was able to make the pass on the outside of Fortner to take the lead.  Williams tried to follow, but there was
no real estate left.  At the final flag, it was Kingma, Fortner, Williams, Mike Heckenast, Rich Gynn, Mark Stevenson
and Chris Fortner.  However due to an oversight, Chris was disqualified for not crossing the scales and the position went to
Terry Sadowski.

Heat Race Winners were Robert Shidler and Bob Fortner.

We will return to Shadyhill Speedway on Monday, July 4th for their 11th Annual Firecracker 50 Modified Race and a full program
include the spectacular firework show.


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July 2, 2011

Congratulation to first time feature winner Mike Heckenast in the 98 Machine!!  Mike did everything he could to keep Adam
Williams off his back in the fifteen lap main event at Kankakee Speedway last night.  Adam attempted numerous times to sling
shot around the high side of Heckenast, but Mike shut the door each time to obtain his first feature of the season!  Mike Kingma
and Rich Gynn had a great battle going for third spot with Chris Arihood getting his nose in on the action a time or two, but Kingma
would prevail.  Chris Balazs had is best finish so far this season in sixth.

Heat race winners were Mike Heckenast and Adam Williams.

Tonight the I-Mods are at Shadyhill Speedway for a regular night of racing.  We should be second in the running order tonight.
We will return to Shadyhill Speedway on Monday, July 4th for their 11th Annual Firecracker 50 Modified Race and a full program
include the spectacular firework show.  Hope to see everyone at the track!

****************************************************************************

June 28, 2011

The "Correct" Tube for the American Racer Tires is now available through RaceStar Concepts, LLC. 
The Heavy Duty Design has a short, large diameter valve stem.  They are $15 plus tax.  Check out the parts page for other
items offered by RaceStar Concepts, LLC.

*****************************************************************************

June 28, 2011

Due to rain outs at both Illiana Speedway and Shadyhill Speedway along with the cancellation of the
midget series' Wednesday showing at Illiana Speedway, there is not a date available to reschedule
the RaceStar Concepts, LLC -  I-Mod Association's visit to Illiana Speedway.  We apologize, but after
diligent attempts to accommodate everyone, it just cannot be accomplished this season. We are
currently working to reschedule the rainout and one other date for 2012.

Anyone driver and crew that made their way into the pits prior to the cancellation, a refund will be
issued to you.  You must bring the Wrist Bands you received from Illiana Speedway to Amy at either
Kankakee Speedway or Shadyhill Speedway this weekend.  She will issue you a receipt for the
number of wrist bands you turn into her.  Once she has all wrist bands, she will then return them to
Illiana on behalf of the Association's drivers, collect the funds and distribute them to you accordingly.
We apologize that we are unable to reschedule the event, but we are pleased to be able to obtain a
refund in your behalf.  If you have any questions, please contact Amy (219) 616-2962.  Thank you.

**********************************************************************

June 26, 2011

Saturday night racing at Shadyhill Speedway was concluded at 10:45.  With the threat of rain and even a few sprinkles in the air, the program was moved through fairly quickly.  Eighteen I-Mods were divided up into two heat races.  Chris Arihood picked up his third heat race win of the season while Mike Heckenast picked up his first. 

In feature action, it was a game of survival.  With a dry slick slightly rough track, these guys had to keep their hand on the wheel.  There were an uncharacteristic number of yellows  and for the first time, the race was called due to time restraints.   Mike Kingma had made his way from his 11th starting spot to the number five position when Chris Arihood was showing signs of engine trouble.  Chris at times had near a half a straightaway lead over the rest of the field. When at lap 8 he had at least a 2 car lead over Jimmy Walker, Adam Williams and Robert Shidler as he entered turn one. Going into turn two, Arihood's engine let out a bunch of steam and water.  Before Walker knew it, he hit that water and turned sideways with Williams and Shidler with no where to go, they threw it sideways and slid into each other.  Walker and Williams suffered damage and were unable to continue.  Shidler avoided physical damage, but had to restart on the rear. This moved Kingma into second. With eight laps to go, Arihood still maintained the lead but it was only a matter of time.  With 6 laps left, the engine could not hold out any longer and let loose in turn four, just as Kingma passed for the lead.  The massive amount of thick white smoke caused several cars to get into each other and brought out another yellow.  When the race was restarted, Kingma pulled away from the pack and with two laps to go, another yellow was brought out.  The field was lined back up and the checkered was waved under yellow due to time restraints.  Kingma - Gynn - Cooley - Payne - Stevenson - Sadowski and Balazs were the top seven finishers.

 

Next weekend is a race packed Holiday weekend.  It all starts Friday night at Kankakee County Speedway with thier Fourth of July Special twin 25's LAte Model race and the I-Mods.  Then Saturday the I-Mods are at Shadyhill Speedway for regular program of racing.  Everyone gets to catch their breath of Sunday so they can return to Shadyhill Speedway on Monday for the 11th Annual UMP Modified Firecracker 50 with a huge firework display and a full program for the remaining classes.  Hope to see all of you at some point next weekend!

****************************************************************************************

June 19, 2011

There were seventeen I-Mods signed in for a night of racing at The "Hill". Heat race winners were Mike Kingma of Lowell, Indiana and Bob Fortner of Georgetown, Illinois.  Bob Fortner was able to capture his first feature win of the season with Mike Kingma, Robert Shidler, Adam Williams, Chris Arihood and Rich Gynn rounding out the top six. Don Stone was the hot shoe of the evening moving 6 spots to finish in seventh.

Saturday, June 25th the I-Mods will return to Shadyhill Speedway.  Also, the I-Mod Just for Fun race has been rescheduled for July 9th at Shadyhill.

********************************************************************************************

June 18, 2011

It was another successful night of racing at Kankakee County Speedway last night.  17 I-Mods signed in for two heat races. 

In heat race number one action, Mark Stevenson in the 22 machine broke a left rear axle just as he was coming off the apex of turns 3 and 4, at the same time Josh Cooley in the 9 machine had gotten loose off of turn 4 and spun. Stevenson's was heading in Cooley's direction when the left rear tire came off completely and the car dug into the track turning Mark on to the left side of the car, just a foot away from Cooley's car.  The track crew raced to Stevenson's car and within a few minutes, Mark climbed his way out the right side window and waved to the crowd!  The track crew turned the car upright and towed it off the track so racing could resume.  And that is what it did! Williams and Kingma had a great race going for that win spot and Barkus and Stone were not letting all the attention stay on those front runners either.  When the checkered flag flew it was Williams (14), Kingma (77), Barkus (3), Stone (77s) and Kroll (01).

In heat race action number two, everyone decided that they liked to keep all four wheels on the ground and kept the racing tight.  Neil Martin was have mechanical issues with his 88 machine and pulled off early.  Rick Kingsnorth in the 2 machine attempted to keep his car on the track but the left front ball joint told him otherwise and he was forced to muscle his way to the infield. Montalta was trying to run down Arihood with Ryen Johnson making sure Montalta knew he was around.  At the flag it was Arihood (1), Montalta (v7), Johnson (18J), Gynn (89) and Terry Sadowski (911).

The feature was a cat and mouse game for 4 prominent drivers. Despite their starting positions, it came down to Adams Williams being chased by 3 big cats, Don Stone, Mike Kingma and Chris Arihood! There was some side by side chasing, some nose to tail chasing and some out of no-where chasing, but Adam was able to keep his composure and take his second feature win of the season.  Don Stone showed no signs of settling but ultimately ran out of laps. Arihood and Kingma had their back and forth battle going for the last 10 laps of the feature, but after a restart with 3 laps to go, Arihood had the better groove and was able to pass Kingma to take third with Kingma settling for fourth.  Rich Gynn held off Mike Heckenast for the fifth spot. In an act of sportsmanship, Rick Kingsnorth graciously gave up his ride to Neil Martin for the evening. Rick Kingsnorth was able to fix his car for the feature, however Neil Martin was unable to do so.  Since Neil is wanting to stay in the points race, Rick offered up his car. A wonderful gesture from a good guy!  Its just goes to show what this division is about.

Next Friday, June 24th, at Kankakee County Speedway - Court Street Ford presents the IRA 410 Outlaw Winged Sprints and the Late Models & I-Mods are Off.  The I-Mods will return to Kankakee County Speedway on Friday, July 1st for the 4th of July Show.

Tonight, June 18th, the I-Mods are scheduled for Shadyhill Speedway.  Hope to see you there!
 

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June 12, 2011  

RULE CHANGES  EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY

I-Mod Rule Book - Page 2 - Section 1 - Paragraph 3 now reads as follows:

Any verbal and/or physical abuse of an I-Mod official by a competitor or crew member will result in disqualifications, loss of all monies for the evening, loss of all points to date, a minimum 1 year suspension and a minimum $500 fine per person.

 

I-Mod Rule Book - Page 2 - Section 1 - Paragraph 4 now reads as follows:

Fighting by any I-Mod competitor and/or crew member will result in the following:
 

First Offense: Loss of all points to date, a minimum $500 fine, and a 4 event suspension.

Second Offense: Loss of all points to date, a minimum $1,000 fine and a 1 calendar year suspension.
 

I-Mod Rule Book - Page 2 - Section 1 - New Paragraph 5 reads as follows:

Threatening a competitor or crew member will carry the same penalties as fighting.

 

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June 12, 2011

After five consecutive rainouts, Shadyhill Speedway was finally able to get their 2011 race season kicked off last night.  There were 17 I-Mods signed in for the evening.   Two Heat Races were on the board.  Heat race number one found Jimmy Walker and his #7 machine in the winner circle with Robert Shidler (N33), Mike Heckenast (98), Mike Kingma (77) and Josh Cooley (9) rounding out the top five.  In heat race number two, Adam Williams was right at home with his win followed by Chris Arihood (1), Rich Gynn (89), Don Stone (77s) and Terry McIntire Jr.

The Feature had a few yellows, mainly caused by driver's trying to get use to the track itself, nothing major.  Twenty laps later, Jimmy Walker was able to keep Adam WIlliams behind him despite a minor mechanical issue.  Evidently, Jimmy wanted to prove that you really don't need both rear shocks on the car as sometime during that race one of his broke, but it didn't seem to hinder his driving at all.  Mike Kingma was able to maneuver his way through the field from his seventh starting position to finish third, Robert Shidler held on strong for fourth and Don Stone finished fifth.  It was a late night, but everyone was able to drive their cars onto their trailers so it was a good night.

Friday, June 17th the I-Mods will be at Kankakee County Speedway and then Saturday we will be at Shadyhill Speedway.

*********************************************************************************

June 4, 2011

Tonight the I-Mods will make their first ever trip to the famed Illiana Speedway located on US 30 in Schererville, IN.  The pit gates open at 3:00 and the cost is $30.  The grandstands open at 4:00 with Illiana's regular classes qualifying at 5:30 and the first race hits the track at 7:00.

The I-Mods will draw for heat race position and run 8 laps.  The heat finish will determine the feature lineup as usual.  It will be a twenty lap feature.  The payout is as follows:

1. $240  2. $175  3. $145  4. $110  5. $100  6. $90  7. $80  8. $75  9. $70  10. $65  11. $60  12. $55  13. $50  14.-20th $45

Good luck to everyone and we hope you all can make it!

**********************************************************************************************

June 4, 2011

There were a few "firsts" that took place on a beautiful night of racing at Kankakee County Speedway last night.  It was the first time all season that the I-Mods had to have three heat races due to twenty-two cars signing in. 

Another first came in heat race number one when I-Mod Rookie, sixteen year old Nick Pasek (20x) was able to hold off veteran Mitch Bailey (42) for his first win.  Josh Cooley (9) took the third spot. 

Then heat race number two had a great battle going between winner Mike Kingma (77) and Mike Heckenast (98) with Neil Martin (88) sealing that third spot.

And in heat race number three 2010 I-Mod Sportsman of the Year, Rich Gynn (89) held off Ryen Johnson and Mark Stevenson for his first career win! 

The feature saw all twenty-two cars take the green and twenty finish all fifteen laps.  There was a little side by side action, a little place swapping and a few beats and bangs along the way, but all in all it was a good race.  Mike Kingma (77) as victories with Neil Martin (88), Mike Heckenast (98), Dan Kroll(01) and Mitch Bailey(42) rounding out the top five.

The I-Mods have the next  Friday off from Kankakee County Speedway.  We will return on June 17, 2011.

 

******************************************************************************************

June 1, 2011

The I-Mods are at Kankakee County Speedway this Friday, June 3rd.

THERE WILL BE NO I-MOD RACING AT SHADYHILL SPEEDWAY ON SATURDAY JUNE 4th.

Saturday, June 4th the I-Mods are taking their dirt tires and putting them on asphalt at Illiana Speedway for the first ever I-Mod Quarter Mile asphalt race.  It is IMPORTANT that as many I-Mods as possible make this appearance.  We are trying to show the diversity of this division and without the support of our current drivers, we are not going to be able to accomplish that.  Please double check your schedules and make every attempt to be at Illiana Speedway in Schererville Indiana on US 30 this Saturday, June 4th.  Pit gates open at 3p.m., Grandstand gates at 4p.m., their normal classes qualify at 5:30 and the first race takes the track at 7p.m.  The I-Mods will draw for position as we normally do. Pit gates are $30.

Payout and number of laps for each race will be posted when available.

 

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May 28, 2011

What a great night of racing put on by the I-Mods at Kankakee County Speedway!  There were 18 cars on the grid last night. Nine cars in each heat race found the #42 of Mitch Bailey taking heat race number one.  And Rookie, Chris Balazs in the #63 machine held off Mike Kingma in the 77 for the win in heat race number two.
 

 

 

Mitch Bailey is on a huge roll so far this season.  For the second week in a row, he has won his heat and taken the feature win frpm the pole!  Way to go Mitch, it might be that new color scheme!  New comer Dan Kroll in the 01 was second with Adam Williams (14), Mike Kingma (77) and the 2010 I-Mod Sportsman of the Year Rich Gynn (89) rounding out the top 5.

 

 

Photo Provide by Photos by Lu - KCS Photographer

The I-Mods are on tap for Shadyhill Speedway tonight, May 28th.  They will return to Kankakee County Speedway on Friday, June 3rd and then the I-Mods will switch gears and head for asphalt on Saturday June 4th at Illiana Speedway in Schererville, Indiana.  We hope to see everyone there!!

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May 23, 2011

Despite the ugly weather that took place close to home Sunday, Kokomo Speedway was able to put on a great night of racing with only a minor rain delay after two consolation races.  Trust me, the sky looked far worse than a minor delay, but it never did let loose.

Nine I-Mods made the trip to Kokomo Speedway.  For four of them this was their first night out of the season.  Mitch Bailey #42 was able to bring lady luck with him as he pulled off both the heat race and the feature win from the pole position.  Nice Job Mitch!

Tim Sullivan Jr was piloting the n33 machine typically driven by Robert Shidler.  Tim handled the machine quite well in the heat race for a second place finish, but suffered a mid-race flat that ended his feature in 7th position.  Don Stone brought the 77s machine out for its inaugural run.  He finished third in the heat race and was able to finish second in the feature. Terry McIntire Jr had his familiar #8 on the track as well.  Terry finished fourth in the heat but suffered a broken left front ball joint that ended his feature in 8th position.  The yellow 22 machine of Mark Stevenson had a good night.  He finished fifth in the heat and sixth in the feature. The eye popping #9 of Josh Cooley finished the heat race in 6th and the feature in 5th. The season early powerhouses of Mike Kingma and Adam Williams suffered some misfortune during the heat race, they both suffered from left side flats and finished 7th and 8th respectfully.  But Williams was able to bounce back in the feature despite the heavy smoke bellowing behind his car in the second half of the race as he ran down Stone. Williams finished third. Kingma found his way to fourth.  Chris Balazs in the 63 machine arrived at the track with a huge smile and looking for some fun.  Unfortunately the heat race wasn't kind to him and he finished in 9th position.

Kokomo did an excellent job of keeping the show moving with the threat of rain on the horizon.  And then even more impressive, they were able to keep the track surface in tacked by working the track in immediately after the rain.  There was some great racing during all the features.  The I-Mods were the last feature of the night, we entered the track at 9pm and were done by 9:08.  Green flag to checkered!  Nice job guys.  We will be back at Kokomo in October for the Kokomo Klash.  Mark your calendars now!  We are gonna need as many of you to make that trip as possible!

Up next...Kankakee County Speedway on Friday, May 27th with a full show and Memorial Day Food Drive.  Then with any luck at all, we will finally be able to take to the track at Shadyhill Speedway for a Full Program with the UMP Modified Double Points night and a  25 lap feature.  We hope to see everyone this coming weekend.

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May 18, 2011

The Kokomo Speedway payout will be as follows:

1- $240  2- $175   3-$145  4-$110   5-$100   6-$90  7-$80  8-$75  9 - $70  10 - $65

11- $60   12-$55    13- $50   14 on down $45

The payout was confirmed yesterday.  Kokomo is on Eastern time and they do run a fast pace show to get everyone out of there as soon as possible.  Pit gates open at 3:00 eastern.  If you can't be there soon enough to draw, be sure to text me to do so otherwise you will go to the back of a heat.  Hope to see everyone there!

 

ALSO: Please be advised that all special Shows (Kokomo - Illiana - Kokomo Klash) will be scored as Double I-Mod Points.

***********************************************************************

May 16, 2011 - A word from I-Mod Director, Rich Rish

The current tough economic times have affected all of us recently and its effects are no more evident than in the hobby of stock car racing. More and more local tracks are, at best, struggling if even still operating. The rising costs involved in racing are escalating to the point that many drivers and car owners are parking their rides in an effort to use that money in more important areas. Being a previous car owner, driver, and now series owner, I recognize the need for an open mind and solutions to keep the hobby of racing available to anyone who wishes to pursue it.
 
I'm not alone in my quest. Many of you I-MOD Association members are aware of Kankakee County Speedway Promoter, Tom Smith's passion for the sport and his search for the same results as me. It was through his perseverance for a solution that energized my efforts. The I-MOD Association has a very strict set of rules that not only promote close competition but are also in place to maximize your racing budget. The single most expensive item on a race car is the engine assembly. Several tracks and sanctioning bodies have switched to a "crate" engine program to address this issue. The most common "crate" engines are the GM 602 and 604 assemblies. While these two choices are great for others, they absolutely would not work for our situation. They are full of parts that are illegal in our rule book and make more power than our current configuration. I saw no reason to adopt those into our program which would make all of our current engines obsolete.
 
I contacted several different engine builders to explain our situation and to get some opinions on options. I then contacted a representative with GM Performance Parts division and gave him a rundown of our current rules. This might have been the single most important call that I've made in a long time. What if I was to tell all of you that GM Performance Parts now offers a 100% NEW long block that is 100% I-MOD legal, complete with our spec cam and correct cylinder head castings for around $2000! The GM part number for the long block is 12499529. I couldn't hardly believe it myself after talking with some of you and hearing what its been costing to just freshen up an existing engine. It even gets better, since this is a brand new assembly, there is NO core charge!
 
Now I know I said in a previous post that crate engines would not be allowed in the I-MOD Association. This was in regards to the 602 and 604. With this new option from GM, not only does it give everyone another option for their car, but it does not make their current engine obsolete. Just this past week I personally installed one of these engines in a member's car. I removed the oil pan to swap it with a circle track style unit and was very impressed with its quality. This new engine assembly is NOT mandatory, it is just another option for anyone who is the market for a new power plant. There is no advantage or disadvantage by using this new engine option. I've done quite a bit of research on this unit and it seems to be a viable option for our division. Contact me with any questions on this new engine.
 
We here at RaceStar Concepts / I-MOD Association will do everything we can to bring the hobby of stock car racing to everyone who wants to experience it.
 
 
Rich Rish, Series Director
219-405-6845

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March 20, 2011 - A word from I-Mod Director, Rich Rish

Splitting my time between phone calls, e-mails, and my regular weekday job has been quite challenging lately but has been very rewarding. One of these rewards came after following up on an e-mail I received last month. I have learned that the I-MOD Association has been voted the "Midwest's fastest growing independent stock car series" by the National Short Track Promoters Association. Reasons cited for receiving this award include "providing an affordable form of stock car racing", "an intelligent set of rules" and "strict enforcement of those rules". In a recent phone interview with Circle Track Magazine, I was asked what future plans I had for the I-MOD Association in regards to rule changes. My response was "to keep the current rules the same and to make sure they are followed". I stressed that the majority of the rules have been the same since 1997 and that we tech something at every event. It is nice to know as a car owner that major rules are not going to change yearly and that all the parts you have invested in will not become obsolete.

 

That brings me to the next item on my list. There have been rumors floating around that GM crate engines will be allowed in the I-MOD Association for next year. Let me put an end to that one right here. I have spent many hours researching this subject. I have spoke with representatives at GM and with series promoters with experience running crate engines. While crate engines may have their place in other divisions, it is not a viable option for us at this time. We already have a strict set of engine rules. These rules are assembled to allow the car owner to build his own engine or purchase one from an engine builder at a reasonable cost with NO performance advantage for either option. The GM crate engines use components that are illegal by our current rules. The argument has been made that guys just want to go out to a GM dealership and buy an engine and not deal with an engine builder. That's a nice concept, but what happens when there is a problem with that "dealer bought" engine or when its time to freshen that "sealed" engine? You have to take it to a track approved or sanctioning bodies' approved engine builder. You don't send it back to GM to get it repaired. Then there is the whole misconception of a crate engine being sealed with no chance of tampering. All I have to say to that is take a few second and go to E-bay and look up "GM crate engine bolts". There you will see how hard it is to purchase the tamper proof bolts that are supposed to be the dead giveaway for an engine that has been modified. There is even a link on a couple ads that take you to a company that laser etches the bolts. Our current engines are not sealed for a reason. It gives me access to any and all parts of that engine during tech. With the addition of the inspection plugs mandated in our 2011 rules, this will allow even more access to inspect for rule compliance. So in case it wasn't stated clearly enough, there will be NO CRATE ENGINES ALLOWED IN THE I-MOD ASSOCIATION for the 2011 or 2012 seasons.

 

I have had some questions from a few of you regarding the use of our spec American Racer tires for our visit to Illiana Motor Speedway's 1/4 mile asphalt track June 4th. Last fall I took a selection of tires and mounted them on a street stock that finished in the top 5 in 2010 points at that track. After 40 laps of testing we observed minimal wear. Now their cars are heavier (3000 lbs) but was set up to run that track. Caution will have to be taken by all drivers not to abuse the tires and try to keep the rear of their cars under them. We did notice that used ties, with several heat cycles, held up much better that brand new tires did. If there is any concern about tire wear, I'd suggest planning on attending one of the Illiana test days scheduled for April 9th and 16th. I'll be on hand those days to help with set up questions if needed.

 

That's enough for now. I'll keep you guys up to date with info when it is available. I just got a second order of tires in last week so contact me if you are in need of some. I also have some plug kits and lexan side panels on hand. Check out our "I-MOD Parts Store" for current prices.



Rich Rish, Series Director